Arsenal's Cech expected to miss next 2 matches

A calf injury is expected to sideline Petr Cech for Arsenal's next two matches - against Manchester City on April 2 and West Ham on April 5 - manager Arsene Wenger revealed Thursday.

Cech could, however, be back for Arsenal's encounter with Crystal Palace on April 10, which would see him return a week ahead of the initially reported one-month recovery timeline.

"I think he could miss Sunday (vs. City) and Wednesday against West Ham," Wenger said." He may be available again after."

Cech exited just 37 minutes into Arsenal's 3-1 loss to West Bromwich Albion on March 18 when he went down with the injury.

David Ospina is expected to deputise between the pipes when Arsenal hosts Manchester City in a battle between two clubs vying for a spot in next season's Champions League.

City currently sits third with a seven-point edge over sixth-place Arsenal, which has a game in hand.